My Beef with Black

Note: This article was originally sent to newsletter readers in July 2010. While the article has been updated for this publication, the advice is mainly the same.

I have been critical over the years about wearing black. As a trained expert in custom color analysis, I can’t help myself. I observe how color appears on others. I notice what a color does to their hair, skin, and eye colors. If a color detracts or is otherwise unsupportive of you, it has no place in your wardrobe. Black is notoriously difficult to pull off, yet it is found in most wardrobes.

I am not completely against black. It has its time and place (at formal and black-tie events, for instance). I have been wearing several black ensembles so far in 2024 as I’ve shared on social media and in this post. However, for the most part, most of us need not wear it.

Here’s why black is not the best choice for your wardrobe:

It does not enhance you.

Regardless of your skin tone, light or dark, black generally does nothing to enhance your natural coloring. If you have shadows or dark circles on your face, black may emphasize them. Be honest and look at your face in a mirror with black held up to it. What does black DO for you? If you are fair haired and fair skinned, black washes you out. If you have dark hair and dark skin, black causes you to fade into the background.

It is not the only slimming color.

It is true that dark colors are recessive and cause things to look smaller. However, black is not the only color that can accomplish a slimming effect for you. Instead, try chocolate brown, navy blue, charcoal, wine or dark green. To be honest, the most slimming results come from clothes that have a proper fit and shape regardless of color.

It is difficult to pair with other colors.

Think about it.  What looks great with black? Very little. Black pairs well with pastels (like baby blue), camel, white, and raspberry. We often pair black with white because it is one of the few combinations of black and another color that work well. White and black worn together creates a high contrast. If your hair and skin tone are not as contrasting as white and black, wearing them together (especially near your face) will overpower you. If a “power” message is your goal, black and white is a good combination.

It says little about your personality.

Your clothing and your style should tell a story. They tell us who you are, where you are going, and how you expect to be treated. Black becomes a default for many, and it takes over wardrobes because we don’t know what else to wear. This is where a custom color analysis is helpful! It opens your eyes to a world of colors, a real style game-changer!

It sends a negative message.

Black is the absence of color, the absorption of all light. It is cold, intimidating, and unfriendly. Is this your intended message? There are countless other colors that help us appear more attractive, interesting, and approachable.

Your Challenge: Go on a black diet. Black is everywhere in the stores and very easy to buy. Don’t. If you own a lot of black, make a conscious effort to insert color, even if it is just with accessories and shoes as a starting point. Color is a conversation-starter, a vehicle to open doors, and a wonderful way to boost your mood. You can do it!

Always be yourself.

If you love wearing black, and you feel your best in black, keep buying and wearing black. My articles are intended to educate and to inspire. However, I am not super rules-y myself. I own clothing colors that are not personally flattering, including black (as you see here). Sometimes we need to draw outside the lines. So, don’t let me stop you if you love wearing black. I want you to love how you look and feel!

If you want help choosing the right colors, or if you need help editing, email me at bethany@bethanysiggins.com. I’d be happy to speak with you about your style goals this year. You can learn more about me on my website at www.bethanysiggins.com.